In the Midwest we love all four of our seasons, but it’s hard to deny that summer is the one we hold most dear. Those all too fleeting sunny days give way to tranquil evenings when that familiar crack of the bat rings out from south Sheridan Road in Kenosha.
That’s where the welcoming gates of Historic Simmons Field have been swinging open for baseball fans since 1920. Named for the company founded by Zalmon G. Simmons, an early civic leader turned bedding magnate, the field was home to the Simmons Bedmakers for its first few decades.
In the 1940s the Kenosha Comets moved in as one of the founding teams in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL), made famous by the movie “A League of Their Own”. They say there’s “no crying in baseball” but our Comets never won a championship up against the likes of the Rockford Peaches and Racine Belles, so they might be forgiven for shedding a tear or two.
Since 2014, Historic Simmons Field has been home to the Kenosha Kingfish. They play in the Northwoods League which features talented collegiate players from all around the country. It’s a wood-bat league and has near daily games designed to get the players ready for the big leagues. As a result, we are treated to dozens of high-quality ball games starring the sluggers of tomorrow, each season.
What’s more, the Kingfish emphasize family friendly fun including theme nights, giveaways, a kid zone, and between inning entertainment. Have you ever seen two teams face off in a race while riding toilets on wheels? If not, the Kingfish can make that happen!
Elvis is the team mascot who loves to interact with fans around the park and always gets into his share of shenanigans. Kids love the chance to run the bases after select games, then get signatures and selfies with their favorite players in “Autograph Alley” to cap off the night.
One of the most appealing things about the Kingfish is the value compared to big league prices. No need to break the bank for the whole family to enjoy a ballgame, hot dogs, popcorn, ice cream, craft beer, and did I mention free parking?
Part of the left field wall is an actual fishing boat which can be reserved for parties. This is right next to “The Fish Bowl” - an area with unlimited food/drinks through the first part of the game. As you can see, Historic Simmons Field has something for everyone this summer. Now, who’s ready to “take me out to the ball game”?!
Happy 105th birthday to Simmons Field, which is nestled among businesses and homes on Sheridan Road. The 2025 home opener is May 26. Special promotions are offered throughout the season, including post-game fireworks after Saturday home games. There are a variety of ticket options!
Historic Simmons Field:
7817 Sheridan Road
Kenosha, WI 53143
(262) 653-0900
